David, born 30 October 1946 in Madisonville, TX and a relatively recent resident of Unicoi, TN, was a man of the world. His work in oil & gas and power plant construction took him to various states in the US, as well as countries in Asia, South America, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Australia and Canada. He began working construction as a pipe fitter at age 16, and advanced his career to construction project manager.
Breaks in his construction career came as he proudly served his country in Special Forces in Vietnam, as he started his own business in heavy equipment rentals, and as he worked for a time as a stockbroker.
David was a quiet hero who never heralded his military service or bragged about his good deeds in many communities in which he worked. Anyone in uniform-uniformed service members, firefighters, police and EMS – who had his/her check anonymously paid at restaurants across the country, in airports, and on duty abroad may likely thank David for their meal. Regardless the number at the table, he always anonymously picked up their checks. He also performed community service in many countries in which he worked, renovating and providing maintenance for orphanages and medical facilities, and sharing his skills with the local populace.
Honesty, integrity and plain dealing marked David’s life. He never quenched his thirst for learning, and achieved his bachelor’s degree at age 71. He was a proud patriot who valued his Country’s ideals and achievements.
David died in his home on Thursday, 25 June. During the initial course of his cancer treatment, he continued to work a project in Big Springs, TX, until he was no longer physically able to supervise the retrofit construction. Surviving David are his brothers, Bruce Anderson, of Mobile, AL, Rick Anderson, of Spring, TX, and Mike Thompson, of Friendswood, TX, and his sister, Cindy Safar, of New Orleans, LA. He also leaves behind his wife, Cheryl, his step children, Isaiah Weis and Cecilia Morse-Weis, and his beloved granddaughter, Ella Machac, who brought him joy and smiles even during his final day’s struggle.
A Funeral Mass will be held for David Tuesday, 30 June, at 10:30 AM at St. Mary’s Catholic Church with Father Dustin Collins officiating. Committal Service and Interment will follow in the Catholic Garden at Monte Vista Memorial Park.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Salvation Army, 204 W Walnut Street, Johnson City, TN 37601; Special Operations Warrior Foundation, PO Box 89367, Tampa, FL 33689; or to Shriners, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, FL 33607.
Arrangements especially for Mr. David Neal Anderson and his family have been made through Monte Vista Funeral Home & Memorial Park, 1900 E. Oakland Avenue, Johnson City, TN; 423-282-2631.
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